Residents across eastern Australia are grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Alfred, which has resulted in widespread power outages affecting hundreds of thousands. Southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales are facing significant challenges, including severe flooding, downed power lines, and destroyed trees, prompting local communities to commence clean-up efforts.
Authorities reported a tragic loss of life as a 61-year-old man's body was found in floodwaters on Saturday. In a separate incident, a convoy transporting twelve soldiers to assist in rescue operations experienced a crash, resulting in their hospitalization. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese urged residents to remain vigilant as the storm, although weakened, continues to pose risks with ongoing heavy rainfall, wind gusts, and coastal conditions.
Despite the cyclone weakening into a tropical depression, serious weather threats linger. Emergency services have conducted over a dozen rescues, mainly involving individuals trapped due to rising waters. The New South Wales State Emergency Service reported an overwhelming response, with more than 6,000 calls for help. Currently, approximately 290,000 properties across the affected areas are still without power, with energy companies warning that the outages could last several days.
The search for the previously reported missing 61-year-old man revealed tragic circumstances, as he was seen attempting to escape his vehicle only to be swept away. Meanwhile, the injured soldiers from the convoy crash remain hospitalized, with two in serious condition, as conveyed by New South Wales Premier Chris Minns during a press briefing.
So far, Queensland authorities have not reported any fatalities in their state due to the severe storm's impact, but ongoing assessments and rescue operations continue as flood conditions persist.
